THE BOYS ARE BACK IN THE BARRACKS

Last updated : 31 January 2003 By Editor

Ryan Giggs is delighted:

"A major plus for us is the return of Nicky after nearly three months on the sidelines. Losing Roy Keane with his hip injury generated more headlines. But Butty is just as important to us and it's going to make a big difference having him back. For me, Butty has been playing by far the best football of his career in the last couple of seasons."

"And while a few people seemed surprised by his performances for England at the World Cup, no one at United was shocked because he was superb last season. It will inevitably take him time to regain his sharpness and full match-fitness. But he's coming back at the business end of the season and he will give us that edge just when we need it."